JR4NHS, a group of campaigners including the renowned cosmologist Stephen Hawking, have won permission to launch a High Court challenge to NHS England’s plans to go ahead with accountable care organisations (ACOs).

Mr Justice Waller ruled that JR4NHS’s application arguing that the plans are unlawful can go to a full hearing as soon as possible after 14 March.

The health and social care secretary, Jeremy Hunt, has conceded one of the campaign’s points in agreeing not to go …